Allen NExT Faces Challenges After Layoffs and Student Dissatisfaction

Allen Career Institute, a leading name in exam coaching, has encountered difficulties with its postgraduate medical test preparation wing, Allen NExT. The institute reportedly laid off 60-70 employees from the sales department of Allen NExT since December 2023. These layoffs impacted centers in Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Panchkula. Additionally, Allen NExT's offline teaching operations have been suspended.

Reduced Workforce and Price Cuts Raise Concerns

While Allen Career Institute has not officially commented on the situation, sources close to the matter reveal a significant decrease in Allen NExT's workforce. By mid-April 2024, the employee count had reportedly dwindled to 30, with most affected personnel being hired between January and July 2023. Furthermore, a substantial price reduction for the Allen NExT course was implemented in January 2024, bringing it down from Rs 45,999 to Rs 3,000. This move sparked questions about the program's effectiveness.

Student Concerns Regarding Course Quality and App Issues

Students enrolled in Allen NExT's online program have voiced concerns about the course content and functionality of the learning app. A medical student from Karnataka reported that the course material lacked comprehensiveness for NEET PG preparation. He further highlighted inconsistencies in pricing and expressed dissatisfaction with the institute's response to his complaints. Another student from Dadra and Nagar Haveli faced repeated app crashes without any resolution provided by Allen NExT.

Internal Tensions and Competition from Established Players

Employees who were laid off allege a decline in sales and stricter monitoring since November 2023. These included tracking sales metrics and employee locations. Furthermore, support for marketing efforts reportedly dwindled, leading to exits within the sales team. In the competitive landscape of postgraduate medical exam coaching, Allen NExT faces established players like Unacademy's PrepLadder and Marrow, which are already preferred choices of many students.

Uncertain Future for Allen NExT

Allen Career Institute's foray into online education through Allen NExT appears to be facing roadblocks. The layoffs, student dissatisfaction, and internal challenges raise questions about the program's long-term sustainability. With established competitors offering strong alternatives, Allen NExT will need to address these issues promptly to regain student trust and achieve success in the online education market.